X-ray of the lumbar spine

X-ray of the lumbar spine is an accessible and informative diagnostic method that allows you to assess the condition of bone structures. The examination helps to identify degenerative changes, traumatic injuries, inflammatory processes and other pathologies that cause pain and limited mobility in the spine.

At the Oxford Medical Medical Center, X-rays are performed on modern digital equipment with minimal radiation exposure. If you are concerned about lower back pain, discomfort during movement or suspect a spinal disease, do not delay

A doctor may order an X-ray of the lumbar spine and X-ray of the coccyx if the patient has the following symptoms or conditions:

• Chronic or acute low back pain;

• Injuries to the lumbar region (impacts, falls, accidents);

• Suspected damage to the intervertebral discs;

• Limited mobility, stiffness, impaired posture;

• Signs of radiculopathy, numbness or weakness in the legs;

• Suspected degenerative changes (osteochondrosis, spondylosis).

X-ray of the lumbar spine can also be part of the preventive examination program for systemic diseases of the musculoskeletal system or rheumatological changes, as well as be performed before spinal surgery or for control after the intervention.

In some cases, for a more accurate diagnosis, the doctor may prescribe X-ray of the entire spine. 

The images allow you to visualize:

• The condition of the vertebral bodies, their shape, density and mutual arrangement;

• The height of the intervertebral spaces, which allows you to assess the condition of the discs;

• Signs of deformities (kyphosis, lordosis, scoliosis);

• Signs of osteophytes, calcifications, changes in articular surfaces;

• Consequences of injuries — cracks, fractures, compression injuries;

• Signs of infectious, tumoral or inflammatory processes.

X-ray data help to identify both minor deviations that are not accompanied by pronounced symptoms and serious disorders that require diagnostic clarification and treatment. A lumbar X-ray is especially informative in patients with chronic back pain, impaired posture or suspected damage to bone structures.

It should be borne in mind that X-rays only allow for the assessment of bone tissue. For example, after a shoulder X-ray, in some cases a computed tomography (CT) scan may be ordered to examine the joints or soft tissue structures in detail.

The procedure takes only a few minutes and is completely painless. The patient is positioned lying down, sitting or standing, depending on the clinical case. To obtain a complete picture, images can be taken in several projections:

• Direct;
• Lateral;
• Oblique.

Before the examination, it is necessary to remove all metal objects in the examination area.

After the examination, the radiologist analyzes the images and writes a description. The report indicates:

• The location and shape of the vertebral bodies;
• Signs of degenerative or post-traumatic changes;
• The height of the intervertebral fissures;
• The condition of the articular surfaces and bone structures;
• Features of the X-ray anatomy of the spine.

After receiving the radiologist's report, the patient is recommended to contact the doctor who referred him for examination. The specialist will analyze the X-ray results in detail, compare them with clinical symptoms, history and results of other studies (if necessary) to make an accurate diagnosis. If necessary, the doctor will prescribe appropriate treatment or refer for additional diagnostics, including CT.

The price of a lumbar spine X-ray depends on the number of projections, the need to record the results on a medium, and other services. You can find out the cost in advance here.

Do not delay diagnosis if you have lower back pain, limited movement, or a suspicion of injury or degenerative changes. The sooner the examination is performed, the more effective the treatment can be.

You can make an appointment for a lumbar spine X-ray at the Oxford Medical clinic in Kyiv right now — online or by phone. We will take care of your health and help you regain freedom of movement.